Week 14 - Day 5

*Cucumbers are mentioned in the Bible.  

They are known to have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Find out what other health benefits cucumbers offer in the Healthy Home Ec book,

and what Roman Emperor had a cucumber on his plate everyday!

Gather your ingredients and supplies.  

You won't need your canning supplies until 5 days from now.

Use only fresh cucumbers.  They should not have a waxy feel to them.

Read the ingredient list and measurements in the Healthy Home Ec book.

Slice the ends off the cucumbers.

Then peel using a vegetable peeler.

I cut mine in half and remove the seeds.  This is optional.

I would usually use my food processor, but it unexpectedly broke.

A manual shredder also works,

or you can slice them thinly with a knife.

Peel and slice the onion.

Wash and slice the green pepper.  

Again, use only fresh peppers.  They should not have a waxy feel to them.

Remember to remove the seeds and inner "white flesh."

 The vinegar should dissolve the sugar, but if it doesn't, you can heat it to a mild boil,

then remove it from the heat and stir until sugar is dissolved.

All the veggies should be in your large bowl with an available lid or cover.

Then add the sugar and vinegar mixture and stir.

Cover with a lid and refrigerate.

Stir everyday for 5 days as directed in the Healthy Home Ec book.

On the 5th day, you're ready to freeze the cucumbers.

 Use a canning funnel to prevent spills.
Any freezer container will work, but I like glass jars.

Leave 1/2" headspace at the top.
As the cucumbers freeze, they will expand.
If they are too close to the top of the jar, the jar could break as they expand.
Make sure the vegetables are covered with the liquid.

 Put a lid on loosely.
Put upright in freezer until frozen, then you can tighten the lid.

You can use pint sized jars if you have a smaller family...

or quart sized jars for larger families.

Remember to thaw at room temperature on the day you'll need this salad.
Then pour into a serving bowl and serve.
This is a quick and easy salad or side dish anytime you need it.